Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Celebs
Ilana Frost
On February 26, police sources confirmed to The New York Post that Gossip Girl star Michelle Trachtenberg has died at age 39. According to ABC News, the actress’ mother found her dead in her New York City apartment near Columbus Circle just after 8:00 am local time on Wednesday. The day after Michelle’s death, the New York City Medical Examiner’s Office shared with NBC News that her cause of death was ruled as “undetermined.” A cause of death has since been revealed.
Michelle will be remembered for her iconic roles in Gossip Girl, Ice Princess, Harriet the Spy, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and more. This loss is truly devastating for dedicated fans around the world who grew up watching and adoring the actress. Here’s what we know about Michelle Trachtenberg’s tragic death so far.
On April 16, a spokesperson from the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the actress’s death was ruled as natural and resulted from complications of diabetes mellitus. “The amended determination was made following review of toxicology testing results,” the spokesperson shared, adding that a “toxicology testing can be done without autopsy.” (Michelle’s family reportedly objected to an autopsy for religious reasons.)
Back in January 2024, Michelle’s fans had expressed concern over Instagram photos where the actress appears thin and gaunt. There were rumors that she was using drugs and/or underwent cosmetic procedures. However, Michelle swiftly shut down the concerns, writing on Instagram, “I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself haters.” In another post, the actress responded to more comments about her appearance: “Fun fact. This is my face. Not malnutrition no problems. Why do you have to hate? Get a calendar.”
Michelle got her start in commercials before she rose to fame as a child star, playing Nona Mecklenberg on the Nickelodeon series, The Adventures of Pete & Pete and Harriet in the Harriet the Spy film. She went on to become a household name, starring as the devious Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl. Michelle reprised her role in the Gossip Girl reboot series in 2022 and 2023. She most recently starred in the 2024 documentary film, Spyral.
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RIP, Michelle. You will always be remembered, missed, and celebrated.